Quiste sinovial o ganglion de muñeca, que es, por que se produce, tratamiento y fisioterapia

In this video, you'll learn everything you need to know about a wrist ganglion cyst or synovial cyst. A synovial cyst usually appears suddenly on the dorsal side of the wrist, almost without realizing it, and can sometimes cause pain as well as a minor cosmetic problem. We'll learn what a cyst is made of, how it forms, its diagnosis, and its treatment. I encourage you to stay until the end of the video. WHAT IS A SYNOVIAL CYST? A cyst can be defined as a benign tumor in the form of a "bag or lump" formed in a specific tissue and normally containing a watery fluid. When we talk about a synovial cyst, ganglion, or arthrosynovial cyst, it can be found under these three names. It means that this tumor is close to or immediately superficial to a joint. In the case of a wrist cyst, it is located in the carpal joint complex, and the fluid inside is normally synovial fluid. This is a fluid found within the joints, with the consistency of egg white, that lubricates and cushions joint friction and impact. In the vast majority of cases, synovial cysts in the wrist do not cause pain or limitation of wrist movement and are usually treated for cosmetic reasons. WHY DOES IT OCCUR? With the current knowledge available, the causes are unknown. The mechanism by which the tumor forms or how fluid accumulates from the joint capsule is not entirely clear. The most recent studies suggest that it may be due to inflammation of the capsule, joint, or the tendon itself. Irritation of these structures can cause mechanical changes in the composition, volume, or osmotic pressure of the synovial fluid, making it more likely to leak into neighboring structures, resulting in the formation of the cyst. Genetic factors that increase the predisposition of certain individuals to this type of injury are also considered. The most common site of synovial cysts or ganglion cysts is the dorsal aspect of the wrist, and the posterior area of ​​the knee, known as a Baker's cyst. As you can see, both are areas closely related to the joint synovium or the passage of tendons. HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED? In almost all cases, the diagnosis is visual and palpatory. A deformable, liquid-like or viscous mass should be observed, with no particular color and can cause pain with active movement and direct palpation. Occasionally, during passive joint movement, the patient reports a sensation of stretching or "stopping" in the area. If there is pain or limited range of motion, an ultrasound should be performed to determine if there is a herniation in the capsule. This is a common reason for recurrence after aspiration of the fluid. Because it is connected to the synovium, it accumulates again over time. An ultrasound will also allow the medical professional to assess possible structures that may be compressed by fluid accumulation and causing symptoms. WHAT IS THE TREATMENT? Typically, the cyst is located in superficial tissues, does not cause pain or restriction of movement, and usually disappears spontaneously over time. The exact time is unknown and varies from person to person. If its volume increases significantly or the accumulation develops in deep tissues, it can compromise proper joint movement and cause pain, requiring treatment. Ganglion cysts can be treated conservatively or surgically. In the former, the use of medication to control pain due to the inflammatory exudate is very effective. You should see your doctor so they can evaluate and determine the appropriate pharmacological treatment. Passive joint mobilization and traction techniques are also effective in trying to reduce the volume of the ganglion cyst. You can access these techniques as always by clicking on the upper right corner of the screen. As a last resort, if all else fails, surgical aspiration of the ganglion cyst contents may be an option. However, this procedure has a high relapse rate and usually only provides temporary relief. WHAT IS THE SURGICAL TREATMENT? If the symptoms are very bothersome and the synovial cyst does not spontaneously reabsorb over time, surgical treatment is recommended. The operation consists of a skin incision where the surgeon will cut in layers until the ganglion cyst is isolated and removed. The postoperative period and return to normal life usually last no more than a couple of weeks.